7 Common Mistakes That Delay Customs Clearance (and How to Avoid Them)
A delayed customs clearance usually means extra storage fees and late delivery to your customers or production line. This article covers the most common mistakes that cause clearance delays and how to avoid them.
1. Mismatched Document Data
Differences in the goods’ description, quantity, or importer name between the commercial invoice, bill of lading, and packing list are one of the most common reasons a customs declaration gets held up. Fix: Cross-check all documents with your supplier before shipping to ensure they match exactly.
2. Overlooking Special Certificates
Products like electrical appliances, cosmetics, or food items require conformity certificates (SABER) or licenses (Zawil) in advance. Shipping these products without securing certificates beforehand halts clearance the moment they arrive. Fix: Verify your product category’s requirements before shipping, not after.
3. Contacting the Broker Too Late
Some importers only reach out to a customs broker after the shipment arrives at port, wasting valuable time that could have been used preparing documents while the cargo was in transit. Fix: Contact your broker as soon as shipping is confirmed with your supplier.
4. Incorrect Customs Classification (HS Code)
Inaccurate classification of goods under the customs tariff can lead to incorrect duty calculations or trigger a hold for review. Fix: Work with a broker experienced in correctly classifying different product types.
5. No Valid Customs Power of Attorney
Some importers assume any office can act on their behalf without formal authorization, while customs regulations require an approved power of attorney. Fix: Make sure the required customs authorization is completed early with your broker.
6. Ignoring the Free Storage Period at Port
Every day of delay after the free time (demurrage-free period) ends adds progressively higher storage fees. Fix: Arrange transport in advance so goods are collected immediately once the release order is issued.
7. Relying on Unlicensed or Unreliable Providers
Working with unlicensed clearance providers can expose your shipment to delays or procedural errors that are difficult to fix later. Fix: Verify your broker’s license and accreditation before signing on.
Key Takeaway
Most causes of customs clearance delay can be avoided with early planning and an experienced broker. At Fares Customs Clearance, we review your shipment from the moment it ships to catch these issues before they happen.
Don’t let your shipment risk delay. Contact us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the single most common cause of customs clearance delays?
Missing documents or mismatched data between the commercial invoice, bill of lading, and packing list is the most common cause of clearance delays.
How can I avoid these mistakes on future shipments?
Engaging a trusted customs broker early and reviewing documents with them before the goods ship — not after they arrive — is the best way to avoid most of these mistakes.